From Grief to Joy: Finding Purpose After Loss

What happens when grief arrives uninvited? Not just from death, but from the quiet losses that reshape us after age 50. This conversation with author Laing Rikkers reveals how she transformed the sudden loss of her sister into a creative practice that led to deep healing, renewed purpose, and a choice to embrace joy. If you’re a woman over 50 who spent decades dealing with family, work, caregiving and managing expectations, this episode is for you. Laing and I talk about grief as more than death. It can be divorce, empty nest, health changes, career pivots, and the quiet loss of who you used to be. You’ll hear how simple creative rituals (like morning pages) can help you let go of what you’ve been holding, open your heart to what’s still possible, and reconnect to meaning without forcing “positivity.” Laing also offers a practical resilience framework so you can keep moving through hard seasons with steadiness and grace. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why grief in midlife often looks like identity loss (empty nest, divorce, changing roles), and why that's real grief, not "being dramatic." The "talk it, walk it, write it" approach to moving through heavy emotions and reconnecting with your inner wisdom. How creative expression (even if you don't consider yourself "creative") can be a powerful healing tool. The "sleep, eat, steep" foundation for building resilience through any transition. Why service can be healing. Not as self-abandonment, but as meaningful contribution that restores perspective and purpose. About Our Guest Laing Rikkers is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, and executive coach with over 30 years of leadership experience, including two decades in private equity. Afer losing her younger sister suddenly in 2019, she channeled her grief into creative writing which became the book, "Morning Leaves: Reflections on Loss, Grief, and Connection." Now a certified grief support specialist, Laing leads workshops and serves on the boards of Feeding San Diego and the Empowered Endings Foundation, helping caregivers and families navigate end-of-life challenges with compassion and practical support. Connect with Laing Website: laingrikkers.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laing-rikkers Instagram: @morning_leaves_and_poetry Book: Morning Leaves: Cultivating a Life of Beauty, Meaning and Joy (Second Edition coming March 2026) Resources & Links Mentioned: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron – the creative recovery classic that introduced morning pages Empowered Endings Foundation – supporting caregivers and providers around end-of-life care The Foundation for Art and Healing – research and programs on creative expression and wellness NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – mental health support and resources University of Wisconsin Grief Support Specialist Training Design Your Life, Your Way – Next Steps: Learn more about coaching, energy healing, and the L.O.V.E. Method™ at: gloriarand.com/offerings Check out the Good Grief Women’s Retreat happening in June, 2026: goodgriefretreat.net Discover your unique strengths for designing your next chapter: bit.ly/PersonalPowerQuiz If this episode spoke to you: Leave us a review. Follow/subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Share this with a friend who’s navigating transition, reinvention, or a fresh start after 50. Connect with me on LinkedIn @GloriaGraceRand to continue the conversation about midlife, meaning, and living on purpose. Remember: Your mess is your message. You don't need to have it all figured out to show up.